The use of OPV and IPV ( the polio vaccines) has helped to virtually
wipe out polio from much of the Western Hemisphere. Most developed
countries have been able to control this disease with tight immunization
programs so much so that polio is often referred to as the "forgotten disease".

Control of the virus in developing countries such as parts of Africa
and Asia have not experienced as much success with vaccination programs.
There are still over 250,000 cases of paralytic poliomyelitis each year.

TREATMENT

Once infected, there really is no cure for poliomyelitis. Patients
are made as comfortable as possible with bed rest and pain relievers.
Some may also have trouble breathing and respirators may be used.
The "iron lung" was popularized during the 1950's where patients were put
in large iron chamber that acted as mechanical respirators.

Rhinovirus

Although the common cold may seem like one of the most harmless and
inconsequential viruses, there has yet to be a proven cure.
Many swear by home remedies like chicken soup, hot steam, and
vitamin C.

Since Hepatitis A is transmitted by the fecal-oral
route, the virus can probably be controlled by increasing standards of
hygeine and sanitation especially in key sources like water supplies and
sewage disposal. People who dispense food also need to be careful
about washing their hands after defecation.

Another source of management is use of immunization.
Programs have used human immunoglbulins to protect people in highly endemic
regions. As of 1992, a hepatitis A vaccine was llicensed and has
been used mostly to immunize high risk groups like travelers, intrvenous
drug users, military personnel, animal handlers, hospital staff etc.